Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Diary of John Beauchamp Jones: October 17, 1862

The article in the Whig is backed by one of a similar
character in the Examiner. We shall see what effect they will have on
the policy adopted by the Secretary of War.

Although still unofficial, we have confirmatory accounts of Bragg's
victory in Kentucky. The enemy lost, they say, 25,000 men. Western accounts are
generally exaggerated.

The President has appointed the following
lieutenant-generals: Jackson, Longstreet, (Bishop) Polk, Hardee, Pemberton,
Holmes, and Smith (Kirby).

The raid of Stuart into Pennsylvania was a most brilliant
affair. He captured and destroyed much public property — respecting that of individuals.
The Abolitionists are much mortified, and were greatly frightened. The plan of this
expedition was received at the department to-day — just as conceived and
prepared by Lee, and it was executed by Stuart in a masterly manner.

Advices from Winchester inform the government that McClellan
is receiving large reinforcements. He may be determined to cross the Potomac
and offer battle — as nothing less will satisfy the rabid Abolitionists. Gen.
Lee is tearing up the rails on the road from Harper's Ferry.

Our improvident soldiers lose a great many muskets. We
should not have arms enough on the Potomac, were it not for those captured at
Harper's Ferry. An order will be issued, making every man responsible for the
safe-keeping of his gun.

SOURCE: John Beauchamp Jones, A Rebel War Clerk's
Diary at the Confederate States Capital, Volume 1, p. 171-2